Augusta is an important Italian commercial port
concerned primarily with oil refineries and the production of “green”
(lead-free) petrol. This industrial conglomeration has incurred considerable
damage be it as a result of the 1693 earthquake, the Allied bombing of 1943,
or, indeed following major seismic tremors as recently as 1990.

The town was founded by Frederick II on account
of its strategic position with regard to defending the Bay of Augusta: hence
the overpowering defensive quality of the Swabian castle, despite its neglected
state of repair. The city became the most important Siracusan military outpost
during the Second World War.

Augusta claims as impressing cultural and
tourist attractions as historical ones. The entrance to the citadel is by the
Spanish Gate, flanked by two imposing bastions. The main axis of the old town
is Corso Principe Umberto, the commercial thoroughfare which runs north
to south.

The tour throughout Augusta can begin in the Swabian
Castle, an imposing square building unfortunately reduced to a poor
condition hence not accessible. It probably comprised a square tower at each of
its four corners and other two polygonal towers in the remaining sides, one of
these being only visible. The castle served longtime as a prison. The Forte
Avalos, the Forte Garcia and the Forte Vittoria, all built
during the 16th century, are also worth-seeing.

The religious buildings include the Baroque Chiesa
delle Anime Sante and the 1600’s Chiesa Madre dedicated to Our lady
of the Annunciation.

The tour includes the archaeological site of
Megara Hyblaea (see MEGARA HYBLAEA) and the sea resort of Brucoli; this is a
charming fishing village combining naturalistic attractions, such as the porto-canale
formed by the estuary of the Porcaria creek, and historical ones represented by
a 1600’s fortification designed to defend the local harbour area and the Castello
consisting of a 1400’s square tower.